Filipino antiques shopping in the Philippines
Vigan antiques shops are teeming with bargains
The Philippines is a great place to shop for unusual antiques, and some of the best buys here include porcelain plates and ancient statues of saints. However, while many of the antiques in the Philippines may be the real deal, there are also a lot of good copies around, and visitors should inspect pieces carefully before parting with their cash.
While the Manila districts of Makati and Ermita are famed for their abundance of antiques shops, there are also plenty of antiques shops to be found in the city of Vigan. The streets of Plaridel and Crisologo in the Mestizo district of Vigan are particularly good places to shop, and the city is famed for its Jesus figurines.
Recommended antiques shops in the Philippines
Chang Rong Gallery
One of the most famous antiques shops in the whole of the Philippines, the Chang Rong Gallery can be found in the Intramuros district of Manila. Here, authentic antiques are sold alongside modern reproductions, and the shop is particularly well known for its botanical prints series from 1860. (Calle Real del Palacio, Silahis Center (2nd Flr), Manila, Tel: +63 (0)2 527 2114)
Pointe East Gallery
Art lovers will be in their element as they browse for paintings and other unique pieces in the light and airy gallery. Professional staff are able to supply full details of all the pieces that can be found here, which includes a large collection of antique furniture as well as stylish cabinets and decorative items such as glassware and porcelain plates.
One of the best things about shopping here is that all items come with certificates of authenticity, so you know that you will not regret that price purchase later on. (Ayala Mall, (3rd Floor) Ayala Centre, Makati, Tel: +63 (0)2 729 4968)
Silahis Arts and Artifacts
This combined antiques and crafts centre offers an impressive collection of locally produced goods and rare treasures. The staff that work here are extremely knowledgeable and are able to ship goods to any destination around the globe, while whole orders are also accepted here. (Calle Real del Palacio, General Luna St, Intramuros, Tel: +63 (0)2 527 2111. Fax: +63 (0)2 527 2112)
Gano’s Antique Shop
Antiques hunters are often drawn to Ifugo to check out the weird and wonderful collection of unique antiques that can be found in the large shop. Among the treasures are antique maps, jewellery and a wide range of war paraphernalia. (Nabbal Namulditan, Hingyon, Ifugo, Tel: +63 (0)2 562 340)
Greenhills Shopping Center
This famous shopping centre is located in the outskirts of Manila and boasts a number of excellent antiques stores. The Green Hills Shopping Centre was originally opened back in the 1970s and also features venues that stock items such as shoes, clothing, bags and accessories. (Ortigas Avenue, Manila, Tel: +63 (0)2 721 0572. Fax: +63 (0)2 722 6795)
Arrakis Oggetti Shop
Those who are looking for antique furniture and decorative items will find an excellent selection in this Makati shop. While there are plenty of elegant collections to choose from, perhaps the most famous item that can be found here is the Arrakis Oggetti kettle. (Shangri-La Hotel Shopping Arcade, Makati Avenue, Makati. Hours: Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00)
The Tomlinson Collection
Specialising in authentic Tibetan and Chinese Furniture, this shop imports all of its products directly from their countries of origin, and visitors are free to browse at their leisure. In addition to beautiful cabinets, tables and chairs, the shop also stocks colourful Persian rugs and carpets as well as a whole host of decorative items. (Jupiter Street, Paseo de Roxas Ave, Makati, Tel: +63 (0)2 895 7618. Fax: +63 (0)2 899 1002)
